Santa Cruz, CA, USA to Berkeley, CA, USA from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Santa Cruz to Berkeley: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$5 - Bus, TrainBest price

122 kmDistance

1h 26m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Santa Cruz to Berkeley with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

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Santa Cruz - Berkeley operators

Explore transport companies operating between Santa Cruz and Berkeley, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 (831) 425-8600

Website

http://www.scmtd.com

Bus from Soquel Ave & Front to Diridon Station

Average Duration

58m

Estimated price

$212-211

Bus from Ocean & Water to Diridon Station

Average Duration

56m

Estimated price

$212-211

Train

Contact phone

+1-510-464-6000

Website

http://www.bart.gov

Train from Berryessa / North San Jose to Downtown Berkeley

Average Duration

1h 5m

Estimated price

$9-91

Train from San Francisco International Airport to Downtown Berkeley

Average Duration

54m

Estimated price

$9-92

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from San Jose to Oakland Coliseum/Airport Amtrak

Average Duration

55m

Estimated price

$93-915

Plane

Website

https://www.united.com

Plane from Monterey Airport (MRY) to San Francisco Airport (SFO)

Average Duration

56m

Estimated price

$90-190

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Other from Santa Cruz to Monterey

Average Duration

47m

Estimated price

$9350-9380

Santa Cruz to Berkeley: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Santa Cruz and Berkeley offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Santa Cruz to Berkeley, covering a distance of 76 miles in just about 1 hour and 26 minutes. 💸 Enjoy the flexibility of pricing options ranging from $13 to $20 for the journey from Santa Cruz to Berkeley by car.

Average price

$13 - $20

🌉 Enjoy a smooth and quick 56-minute flight as you head towards Berkeley located just a short distance away from San Francisco Airport.

Departure Point

Monterey Airport

Arrival Point

San Francisco Airport

🌉 The journey from Santa Cruz to Berkeley by bus, with transfers included, typically takes around 3 hours and 33 minutes. This route involves a combination of services operated by Santa Cruz Metro and Amtrak.

Departure Point

Soquel Ave & Front station

Arrival Point

Emeryville station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Santa Cruz to Berkeley.

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The distance between Santa Cruz and Berkeley is approximately 103.0 km by road. It takes about 2 hours and 43 minutes to travel from Santa Cruz to Berkeley by taking a bus and then the BART. If you prefer to drive, it takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes to reach Santa Cruz from Berkeley. The bus journey from Berkeley to Santa Cruz takes about 3 hours and 24 minutes.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Santa Cruz to Berkeley would be taking the bus and BART, which costs between $9 and $21 and has a travel time of 2 hours and 43 minutes. This option allows for a budget-friendly journey while still providing a reasonable travel time. However, for those seeking the quickest way to reach Berkeley, driving is the best option. This option costs between $13 and $20 and takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes, making it the most time-efficient choice.

To get from Santa Cruz to Berkeley without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 122.3 km, which takes approximately 1 hour and 26 minutes. The cost of the drive can range from $13 to $20, depending on fuel efficiency and current gas prices.

If you don't have a car, the best way to travel from Santa Cruz to Berkeley is by taking a bus and then BART. This option takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes and costs between $9 and $21. The bus will take you to a BART station, where you can catch a train to Berkeley.

Yes, there is no direct bus link between Santa Cruz and Berkeley. However, there are bus services available that require transfers in San Jose, and the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 24 minutes. Another option is to drive, which takes around 1 hour and 26 minutes. Alternatively, one can take a combination of bus and BART, which takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes.

The flight between Santa Cruz and Berkeley is relatively short, with a typical duration of about 49 minutes. The quickest flight route is from Monterey Airport to San Francisco Airport, offering a convenient and direct option for travelers.

There are numerous options for accommodation near Berkeley. With over 742 hotels available, travelers can choose from a wide range of options to fit their preferences and budget. Prices start as low as $74, offering affordable choices for those on a tighter budget.